Hawaii Authority Hosts Public Hearing on Kailua Community Development Plan Amendments

The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) convened a public hearing on September 4, 2025, to discuss proposed amendments to the Kalaeloa Plan and rules. The meeting began with procedural announcements, emphasizing the importance of clear identification for speakers and the guidelines for public testimony, which was limited to three minutes per individual.

The hearing was held under the provisions of the Kailaiwo Community Development District rules and Hawaii administrative rules, focusing on amendments intended to clarify and streamline land use permitting processes in the area. The last amendments to the Kailaiwo Master Plan occurred in 2012, and the HCDA initiated the current amendment process in 2020.

Key proposed changes include the establishment of a new zoning district for the Department of Hawaiian Homelands and the introduction of special overlay zones aimed at promoting a main street character along Saratoga Avenue. Additionally, the amendments seek to eliminate minimum parking requirements to align with city policies and incorporate language reflecting recent legislation that mandates consideration of climate change and sea level rise in development planning.

The HCDA clarified that no decisions would be made during this hearing, as the primary purpose was to present the proposed rule amendments and gather public input. A public hearing notice had been published in various local newspapers prior to the meeting, ensuring community awareness and participation.

Following the HCDA staff presentation, board members were given the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments, setting the stage for further discussions and public testimony on the proposed amendments. The meeting underscored the authority's commitment to engaging the community in the development process and addressing contemporary challenges such as climate resilience.